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How to Connect a MacBook to a TV

If you want to use the TV as a secondary display, or stream and view movies on it, you can connect Mac to TV wirelessly or via a cable.

Depending on the MacBook model you’re using, there are the following methods: you can utilize a third-party app, the built-in AirPlay mirroring feature, opt for a wired connection, or go to Settings to switch the main display. Read on to find out more.

Top choice
JustStream
4.6 Rank based on 438+ users, Reviews(227)
 
How to connect MacBook to TV using JustStream.

JustStream can connect MacBook Pro to TV

JustStream

4.6 Rank based on 438 + users Reviews(227)
Requirements: macOS 10.12
Version: v2.6(521), Released 20 Sep, 2022 Release notes
Category: Video

JustStream is a Menu Bar widget with advanced streaming and mirroring functionality. Using a cable to connect MacBook to TV will seem redundant. It stands out by introducing features such as playlists, video quality adjustment, external tracks, and more. By using JustStream, you can choose both the mirroring / streaming source (if you have multiple displays, for example) and the target device in several clicks.

JustStream can connect to any receiver, and it handles high-resolution movies perfectly. If you want to connect Mac to LG TV wirelessly, look no further. In fact, it doesn’t just connect to TVs, but also to dongles like Chromecast.

Don’t want to use HDMI, DVI or USB to connect Mac to Sony Bravia? For an annual subscription of $12.99, JustStream will handle the task perfectly. You even get 20 minutes to give it a try for free.

Note: The JustStream Audio Driver is required to enable sound mirroring, but there’s no need for separate downloads. It’s included in the installer.

Mac to Roku using JustStream.

icon pros Pros

  • Compatible with AirPlay 2, DLNA, Chromecast and others.
  • Create playlists with video and audio files.
  • Can transcode media for better compatibility.
  • Mirroring capabilities that include sound (driver required).

icon cons Cons

  • Free streaming limited to 20 minutes.

How to connect MacBook to TV wirelessly in JustStream

1
Download JustStream and go through the installation process.
2
Launch the app and expand it by clicking the icon on the Menu Bar.
3
Click the "+" to add files which need to be streamed.

Connect MacBook to TV with JustStream.
4
Use the list above to select the receiver.

How to connect MacBook Pro to TV.
5
Press "Start Streaming". The media should now be displayed on the TV.

Connect MacBook to TV using AirPlay (Apple TV)

An Apple TV can mirror the screen contents of a macOS device. This doesn’t require additional apps. Apple has developed its own AirPlay utilities that connect any compatible devices, such as iPhones, iPads, Apple TVs, Macs, and MacBooks. This way, a MacBook can use an Apple TV as an additional display.

How to connect MacBook to Apple TV.

How to connect MacBook Air / Pro to TV


When it comes to how to connect MacBook Air to TV, make sure your MacBook and TV are on the same wireless network and turned on before you proceed.

1
First, on your MacBook, navigate "Displays" in System Preferences.
2
Check the "Show mirroring options in the menu bar when available" box to display the AirPlay icon on the panel.
3
From the "AirPlay Display" drop-down menu, select the device you want to connect to.
4
After that, a window may appear on your smart TV. To use your TV as a secondary monitor, select "Gather Windows" on your MacBook. Thus, all windows will be merged and the screen will be extended.
5
To mirror your MacBook screen to a smart TV, go back to "Display Settings" and head into the "Arrangement" tab, and then select "Mirror Displays".

Use a cable to connect to your MacBook

Older MacBooks and TVs do not support AirPlay. Therefore, to connect your MacBook to TV, you will need a physical cable. Depending on your MacBook model, an adapter may also be required (a USB-C or Thunderbolt-3 to HDMI or DVI). So, if you own an older MacBook Pro model and are wondering how to connect MacBook Pro to TV, here is a brief step-by-step guide.

How to connect MacBook to TV HDMI.

How to connect MacBook to TV


1
To get started, take the proper cable and plug it into your MacBook and to the HDMI port on your TV.
2
When both machines are connected, navigate "Display" in the System Preferences to customize display settings and resolution according to your needs.
3
Once done, you can start using your TV as a MacBook monitor.

Cables and adapters cause a lot of inconvenience - ranging from tripping hazards to tangling, and that includes the costs. Wi-Fi connection is a lot more universal, and it’s suitable for most purposes, such as watching movies or giving presentations. In our opinion, unless you’re gaming, the wireless method is completely superior.

Frequently Asked Questions:

You’ll need to install iTunes to connect AirPlay devices to Windows via Wi-Fi. If you need to stream video, programs like TuneBlade or Airfoil are great. For screen mirroring, you can use AirMyPC, AirParrot, AirServer, or X-Mirage.
Both the iPhone and the AirPlay receiver should be turned on and connected to the same network. If you want to stream music, go to the Control Center, tap and hold "Music", then choose the AirPlay icon and select a device. For screen mirroring, go to the Control Center and tap "Screen Mirroring" or "AirPlay Mirroring".
On a Mac, select "Turn Mirroring Off" in the Mirroring menu. On iOS devices, go to the Control Center and tap "Screen Mirroring" > "Stop Mirroring". To disable the AirPlay feature on your Mac, go to Settings > Displays, select the "AirPlay Display" drop-down and choose "Off".
JustStream
Requirements: OS X 10.12+ , 38.01MB size
Version 2.6(521) (20 Sep, 2022) Release notes
Category: MultimediaApplication